Red light therapy for keratosis pilaris

Keratosis pilaris, sometimes called chicken skin, creates small rough bumps when keratin collects around hair follicles. Red light is a low-heat light treatment used on the skin. It may calm visible redness or support the skin’s repair response, but the result can vary and the bumps may return when treatment stops. Red light is not the same as a peel, hair-removal laser, or prescription cream.

Use a bland moisturiser regularly and avoid scrubbing, picking, or very hot water, which can make roughness and redness more noticeable. If you try a home device, follow its instructions, protect your eyes as directed, and stop if you develop persistent burning, swelling, or a rash. A dermatologist can check whether red light fits your skin type and goals, and discuss emollient therapy, topical retinoids, or another option. Explore [Keratosis Pilaris](/conditions/keratosis-pilaris/) and [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/).

Arrange an assessment if the bumps are painful, intensely itchy, pus-filled, rapidly changing, or limited to one unusual area. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, marked warmth, facial swelling, or breathing difficulty after a treatment. Skin bumps can have causes other than keratosis pilaris, so a new pattern deserves a proper look.

Ask whether the texture matches keratosis pilaris, what improvement is realistic for your skin, and whether a light device could aggravate an existing condition. You can also ask about treatment timing, eye protection, and how to combine light with moisturisers or prescription products.